Vectors, as defined by the California Department of Public Health, are "any insect or other arthropod, rodent or other animal of public significance capable of harboring or transmitting the causative agents of human disease, or capable of causing human discomfort and injury." Under this definition of a vector, the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (District) provides surveillance and control measures for rats, mosquitoes, flies and Red Imported Fire Ants.

The District provides services for all of Orange County to control for these vectors. The District conducts regular surveillance for vectors and vector-borne diseases that can make the citizens of, or visitors to, Orange County ill, or can be a nuisance.

While the District conducts regular surveillance and control measures throughout the County there are a number of things homeowners can do around their homes to protect themselves from vectors.